Rabat – The White House issued its annual statement to convey the greetings of US President Donald Trump to all Muslims observing Ramadan.

In his message, Trump said that his wife, Melania Trump, joins him in sending “best wishes to Muslims” in the US and around the world for a “blessed month celebration.”

The statement also explained the values of Ramadan and the reason why Muslims celebrate the holy month annually: “Ramadan commemorates when the sacred Quran was revealed to [Prophet] Muhammad.”

Trump’s message to the Muslim communities around the world also emphasized that the Ramadan’s rituals help Muslims to “develop a renewed sense of purpose in their own spiritual journey, deepening their appreciation for God’s grace and mercy.”

“Throughout this month, we all have an opportunity to reflect on the blessings we have been given and to work toward greater fellowship with one another. Together, in the spirit of Ramadan, we can achieve a more harmonious and respectful society,” added the presidential press release.

Many countries including the US and Canada, as well as Saudi Arabia, and Qatar mark the first day of Ramadan as Monday, May 6.

In other places like Morocco, Ramadan will start on Tuesday, May 7, 2019.

Though different countries may begin at different times, fasting during Ramadan is a requirement in the religion of Islam, along with the profession of faith (shahadah), prayer (salah), charity (zakaat), and pilgrimage to Mecca (hajj).